Ezekiel 46:16

This is what the Lord GOD says: 'If the prince gives a gift to any of his sons as an inheritance, it will belong to his descendants. It will become their property by inheritance.

Study Bible

This is what the Lord GOD says:
This phrase emphasizes the divine authority behind the message. In the prophetic books, this introduction is common, underscoring that the message is not from the prophet himself but from God. It reflects the role of prophets as God's mouthpieces, similar to how "Thus saith the Lord" is used in other parts of the Old Testament.

If the prince gives a gift to any of his sons as an inheritance:
The "prince" here refers to a leader or ruler in the restored Israel, possibly a Davidic figure, as Ezekiel often speaks of a future ideal leader. The concept of inheritance is deeply rooted in Israelite culture, where land and property were passed down through generations, as seen in the laws of inheritance in Numbers 27:8-11. This reflects the importance of family lineage and the continuity of God's promises to His people.

it will belong to his descendants:
This phrase highlights the permanence of the inheritance, ensuring that the gift remains within the family line. It echoes the covenantal promises made to Abraham and his descendants in Genesis 17:7-8, where God promises the land to Abraham's offspring. This continuity is crucial for maintaining tribal and familial identity in Israel.

It will become their property by inheritance:
The emphasis on property rights and inheritance laws is significant in the context of ancient Israel, where land was a primary source of wealth and sustenance. This reflects the legal and social structures in place to protect family holdings, as seen in Leviticus 25:23-28, which discusses the Year of Jubilee and the redemption of property. Theologically, it points to the eternal inheritance believers have in Christ, as mentioned in 1 Peter 1:4, where an imperishable inheritance is promised to the faithful.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Lord GOD
The sovereign ruler and ultimate authority, speaking through the prophet Ezekiel.

2. The Prince
A leader or ruler in Israel, possibly representing the Davidic line or a future messianic figure.

3. Sons
The descendants of the prince, who are the recipients of the inheritance.

4. Inheritance
The property or gift given by the prince to his sons, signifying a transfer of ownership and blessing.

5. Ezekiel
The prophet through whom God communicates His laws and visions to the people of Israel.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Inheritance
Inheritance is not just a transfer of property but a continuation of legacy and blessing. It reflects God's promises and faithfulness to His people.

Role of Leadership
The prince's responsibility to provide for his descendants mirrors the responsibility of leaders to care for and ensure the well-being of those they lead.

Spiritual Inheritance
As believers, we are heirs of God's promises through Christ. This spiritual inheritance is eternal and surpasses any earthly possession.

Faithfulness in Stewardship
Just as the prince is to be faithful in distributing his inheritance, we are called to be faithful stewards of the resources and gifts God has entrusted to us.

Generational Impact
Our actions and decisions have lasting effects on future generations. We are encouraged to live in a way that honors God and blesses those who come after us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of inheritance in Ezekiel 46:16 reflect God's promises to His people throughout the Bible?

2. In what ways can we, as modern believers, ensure that we are leaving a godly legacy for future generations?

3. How does the role of the prince in this passage inform our understanding of leadership and responsibility?

4. What are some practical ways we can be faithful stewards of the spiritual and material blessings God has given us?

5. How does the idea of being heirs through Christ, as mentioned in Galatians 4, influence our daily lives and decisions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 25
Discusses the laws of inheritance and property, emphasizing the importance of maintaining family land within the tribe.

Numbers 27
Details the laws of inheritance for the daughters of Zelophehad, highlighting the importance of preserving family inheritance.

2 Samuel 7
God's covenant with David, promising a lasting dynasty, which ties into the concept of inheritance and the role of the prince.

Galatians 4
Paul speaks of believers as heirs through Christ, connecting the idea of inheritance to spiritual blessings.